A flight from Auckland to Tokyo had to turn back due to damage to its windscreen on Monday morning.
Air New Zealand said flight NZ99 had to return to Auckland due to “damage incurred to the outer layer of the windscreen”.
The airline said its aircraft have windows made up of multiple layers to withstand damage.
“To ensure the safety of our customers and crew it’s part of our standard operating procedure to return to one of our ports to allow our maintenance team to undertake repairs. Our team is currently working on rebooking customers on the next available service and we thank our customers for their patience while we do this.”
Community board member Jake Law was onboard the flight and posted updates about the incident on Twitter.
“3.5 hours into a flight to Tokyo and now we are being diverted back to Auckland due to a technical issue,” he said with a tearful emoji.
The emoji used became more tearful when Law arrived back in Auckland.
“Just landed safely at Auckland Airport just over 6 hours after departing from Auckland Airport.”
So apparently the minor “technically issue” is a smashed front windshield. Hopefully landing safely at around 3pm.
I needed this annual leave so bad 🥲— Jake Law (@therealjakelaw) June 19, 2023
The return was one of three disrupted flights in the past 24-hours.
QF93 from Melbourne to Los Angeles diverted to Nadi in Fiji late on Sunday night.
Qantas confirmed this was due to a medical issue with a passenger.
Meanwhile, QF1798 from Brisbane to Rockhampton returned to Brisbane 30 minutes after departure.
The cabin crew reported an unusual smell in the galley area of the aircraft.
“Crew were assessed by ambulance officers on arrival in Brisbane and two were taken to hospital for further medical checks. They were released last night,” a Qantas spokesperson said.
No passengers were affected but did have their departure to Rockhampton delayed until Monday morning.